Natural Home Remedies for Influenza

Influenza is caused by a virus transmitted from one person to another in droplets coughed or sneezed into the air. There is no specific cure for influenza. If you have influenza, you can expect the illness to go away on its own in about 7 to 10 days. You can also take medications that have been found effective in lessening flu symptoms.

However, there are many natural flu remedies that are also effective at easing flu symptoms and reducing the duration of the illness. Certain herbs can provide both protection from the flu and relief of symptoms. They can be a good option, especially if you attempt to reduce your consumption of chemical drugs.

These are some examples of natural home remedies for influenza:

• Ginger tea. Ginger contains powerful antioxidants and it is one of the best herbal remedies for flu. Ginger tea is very helpful in clearing nasal congestion and it can relieve body ache. Boil ginger in a container for 15-20 minutes and drink tea 3-4 times a day. Instead of sugar, you can add honey in it for better result. Ginger tea mixed with honey can work as an excellent expectorant which gives you relief from cough and phlegm.
• Lemon juice. Consuming fruits that are high in Vitamin C can help you boost your immune system. Lemon juice is one of the best sources of vitamin C. Squeeze one lemon (preferably yellow one) in a glass of warm water and add a pinch of salt in it. You can consume it twice or thrice a day.
• Garlic. Garlic is a useful antiseptic and also one of the best sources of antioxidants. You can chew 3-4 raw garlic in the morning and in the evening. This will give immediate relief from runny nose, sneezing, and nasal blockage.
• Turmeric. This is another herbal remedy for flu. Turmeric prevents complications arising from influenza and removes sluggishness of the liver. Add a teaspoonful of turmeric powder in a cup of warm milk and consume it thrice a day.
• Gargling with salt water. It can help you kill the bacteria present in your mouth. Gargling also gives you instant relief from runny nose and cough. Add one spoon salt in gargle water so that it can kill the flu viruses present in your throat.
• Elderberry (sambucus nigra ssp. canadensis) has been used for centuries as a tonic for colds, flu and sinus infections. It can help reduce fever, purify the blood and cleanse the body’s cells of pathogens. Elderberry extract is specifically active against the influenza virus by blocking replication very effectively. At the first sign of flu symptoms, take a hot infused homemade tea of elderberry tincture, yarrow and peppermint right before bed to induce sweating and promote a good night’s rest.
• Boneset can be used to treat influenza, acute bronchitis, nasal inflammation, joint pain, and fluid retention. It is also an immune stimulant that has a long history of being used effectively in cases of influenza and fever. The recommended way to take boneset internally for fevers is as a warm infusion or tea. Drink 4 to 5 cups of the tea while in bed to induce sweating.